In a thrilling seven-goal encounter, the Bulls advanced to the Quarterfinals of the Australia Cup after defeating fellow A-League side, the Newcastle Jets.
On a rainy day at Maitland Regional Sports Ground, the Bulls clawed their way to victory in a dramatic Australia Cup Round of 16 match.
The match started slow for the Bulls, with the team focussing more on possession and absorbing the pressure that the Jets were putting onto them. The Newcastle Jets struck first, with Aleksandar Susnjar earning a penalty in the 15th minute, which they converted. Just five minutes later, the Jets doubled their lead, putting the Bulls under pressure early on.
Despite the slow start, the Bulls came alive in the second half. Valère Germain tapped in the first goal for the Bulls after a chaotic shooting opportunity, quickly leveling the score with another goal just five minutes later. Luke Brattan provided the assist for Germain’s equaliser, spotting him perfectly from the wing.
The Jets responded with a third goal in the 68th minute, but the Bulls were ready to counter. Marin Jakoliš unleashed a stunning shot from outside the box in the 70th minute, finding the far corner to bring the Bulls back on level terms.
Back on equal terms with the Jets, and the Bulls were fired up. Jakoliš struck again just four minutes later, linking up with Germain to score the Bulls’ fourth goal. With the lead in hand, the Bulls held firm, with goalkeeper Filip Kurto making crucial saves to deny the Jets any further goals.
The match ended in a 4-3 victory for the Bulls, securing their place in the Quarterfinals of the Australia Cup.
